Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons health monitoring

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic compounds formed during the combustion of organic material. PAHs are found in many workplace mixtures and can exist as contaminants in engine oil and smoke.

Examples of work activities involving PAH exposure that require special attention when assessing exposure include:

• coke plant work
• aluminium primary plants
• tar roofing
• asphalt road surfacing
• diesel emissions
• contaminated land remediation

This guide provides information for those registered medical practitioners engaged by a PCBU to carry out or supervise health monitoring for workers. This guidance should be read in conjunction with the following:

• Health monitoring guide for registered medical practitioners
• Health monitoring guides for hazardous chemicals
• Health monitoring guide for workers
• Health monitoring guide for persons conducting business or undertakings (PCBUs)